What's the weather like?

Sant Nicolau has a micro climate which combines hot sun in summer, pure air from the nearby Pyrenees, which are snow capped in winter, clear skies and Mediterranean sunshine nearly every day of the year. In summer, day time temperatures are usually between 25 and 35 degrees and evenings are warm and balmy.  In winter, sunny days are the norm; midday temperatures are usually between 15 and 20 degrees in the sun. Athough evenings and early mornings can be cold, nights rarely fall below zero degrees.  

When is the pool open?

The swimming pool is unheated, and although open most of the year, it is warm enough to swim in comfortably from the end of April to late September (and some years,until the end of October). 

Shopping?

There are excellent village shops and mini markets selling quality local produce (including organic foods) within 15 minutes drive or approximately 25 minutes walk.   A good selection of large supermarkets within 20 minutes drive, with locally sourced fresh fish, fruit and vegetables.  Figueres open market is open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Small shops are closed between 1pm and 3pm. There is an organic supermarket in Figueres and an organic farm shop with a wide range of home grown produce in nearby Vilammal (also with a stall on Figueres market.  Mas Sant Nicolau provides a welcome pack service on request.

Horse riding and mountain biking?

There is excellent riding/cycling at all levels available in mountains, beaches, forests and nature parks within 30mins drive. Mountain and road bike hire available. Sant Nicolau isin the centre of a network of excellent biking and riding trails, with easy, moderate and extreme levels from the doorstep and within 30 minutes drive.

Pets?

We accept pets in some of the houses (those with enclosed gardens).  There are wonderful walks and open space for your dogs to run from the entrance of Sant Nicolau.  Excellent vets nearby.  Pet owners are asked to ensure that their pets are on a lead at all times when in the public gardens and that they are never left unattended without prior arrangement with us.  A pet sitting service is available.

Can I travel by public transport?

We do have guests who arrive at Figueres or Girona by high speed train or bus. We can arrange reliable pick up from bus & rail stations. Another option is to hire a car for specific trips also there are a number of car share schemes developing.

Clothing / Laundry facilities?

Outside of the summer temperatures are variable and it is best to have clothing for chilly evenings and mornings as well as beachwear.  Walking shoes are advisable in the countryside.  A communal washing machine and drying area is provided for guests' use.  We ask all our guests not to dry clothing/towels/ swimwear outside the front of the cottages where they are visible to other guests.

Mosquitos & other pests

Being in the countryside, it is usual for there to be some insects during the summer months.  Whilst we carefully manage our local environment to minimise their impact, people susceptible to insects are advised to bring repellent and lightweight clothing for the early evening period when mosquitos are more likely to be apparent.  

Pharmacies & Health Services?

There are pharmacies within 10 mins drive and excellent public & private health services, EU residents must have their EU health card for free emergency treatment.